PARIS — Having failed to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump to stay in the Iran nuclear accord, French President Emmanuel Macron is reaching out to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Macron heads to St. Petersburg on Thursday amid deep differences with Putin over Syria, Ukraine and alleged Russian meddling abroad. And France wants Russia to use its influence with Iran to ensure it respects its nuclear commitments despite Trump’s decision. Macron and Putin will also discuss economic ties despite sanctions over Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Macron and Putin will also discuss Syria and Ukraine though neither side expects much progress.

Source: National Post May 24, 2018 06:08 UTC